Many women turn towards cosmetics
to help boost their confidence. A woman’s image plays a significant role in how
they perceive and interact with each other. This explains why women put so much
effort into enhancing their beauty, through make-up for instance. However,
factors women often ignore are the possible health issues that arise from
hidden chemicals used in cosmetics. This further raises the question, can
something that enhances our beauty be hazardous to our health? And what should
women look out for when purchasing their favorite brands?
Lipstick, for instance, is a universal
branch of make-up that has been carried in women’s bags for decades. But do we
ever ask ourselves; exactly what are we applying onto our lips?
Parabens are one of the most common
preservatives used in cosmetics. Although parabens increase the shelf life of
most beauty products, they posses harmful chemicals that are associated with
estrogenic effects and carcinogenicity.
The most popular lipstick brands
contain a few of the following hidden chemicals: methylparaben, polymethl
methacrylate, propylparaben, retinyl palmitate, and tocopheryl.
Research has revealed that
methylparaben, labeled as a highly hazardous preservative by the Environmental
Working Group (EWG), may be linked to cancer as it has also been banned in the
EU (but not in the US). Also very hazardous, propylmethyl which may cause
allergic reactions. Likewise, tocopheryl acetate may cause skin blistering,
itching and hives.
As each chemical is ranked at its
own degree of “hazard” by the Environmental Working Group, they all have
similar effects on the human body. Studies show that after these toxins have
been absorbed through ones skin, they may cause hormone disruption,
neurological problems, and reproductive disorders.
It’s not just lipstick that women
need to be cautious of, but a variety of beauty products. eMaxHealth claims
that cadmium has been found in eyeliners, nickel in powders, beryllium in
bronzers and arsenic in some foundations.
Although it is difficult to
completely eliminate these hidden chemicals from our daily use, it is important
to remain conscious of what we apply on our skin. Some women tend to use
excessive amounts of make-up to “cover up” but, with all the hazardous effects
that arise from make-up use, it’s important to bear in mind that less is more!
All these chemicals may discourage
women from purchasing make-up however, this is not a realistic solution. For a
list of products with hazardous chemicals, go to www.ewg.org
or for any questions concerning cosmetics and skincare, contact Dr. Talakoub at
703-356-5111.
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